“For five days and nights I looked after Ali and had several discussions with him. He was a very entertaining and gracious man. On the morning of his departure I offered to take his cases to the car but he declined, he carried them himself, stopped at the car, gave me a big smile, shook my hand and thanked me for his stay.

“I was deeply moved. He had quite a large entourage with him, yet he still carried his own cases. I remember that, as it was unusual with guests.

“I was deeply saddened when I learned of his death last week. He was one of the nicest people I have ever met. I wish I had got a photograph with him, as it would be one of my treasured possessions, but I didn’t. I still like watching sport on television and Muhammad Ali will always be one of the greatest sportsmen (and nicest people) of all time to me.”